EMG electrode apparatus and positioning system

Abstract

A system for detecting and analyzing electrical activity in the anatomy of an organism underlying an electrode array provides signals corresponding to electrical activity adjacent each electrode. Such signals are correlated to the underlying anatomy of the organism and representative outputs presented through various types of output devices. Such outputs may include variations in coloration or other qualities in correspondence with representations of underlying anatomical structures. The system includes novel electrode structures (200, 224, and 284) and methods for producing and attaching electrode arrays (240 and 280) to the organism. The exemplary form of the invention is used in connection with the diagnosis of muscle activity in the lower lumbar regions of humans. Levels of muscle activity detected are analyzed by correlation with the muscular structures underlying the electrode array. Forms of the invention may be used in other applications.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a method and apparatus for monitoring and displaying the condition of muscles in a muscle group by the sensing and analysis of electromyographic signals derived from a non-invasive body surface electrode array positioned close to the muscle group. Particularly this invention relates to an electrode apparatus and a system for positioning and holding electrodes in a desired orientation relative to the anatomy of a patient.[0002] Knowledge of the presence of electromyographic (EMG) signals in the muscles of humans, and the change of these signals with muscle activity, spawned development of electronic devices and techniques for monitoring those signals for the evaluation of the muscles. Human musculature, however, involves many hundreds of muscles in various muscle groups, which interact to provide skeletal support and movement. Much of the recent development has been concerned with the techniques and / or devices for monitoring the signals, analyzing the...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides an improved surface EMG equipment for diagnosis and treatment of patients with low back pain. The equipment is portable, uses non-invasive techniques, and provides a visual display of muscle activity. The invention also includes an improved electrode design that achieves better signal acquisition, an improved electrical connector between the electrodes and the buffer / amplifier that minimizes wear between contact points, and an improved method for positioning the electrodes. The invention also provides an inexpensive flexible electrode array and a visual display of the sensed muscle activity on a monitor for evaluation by the physician."

Problems solved by technology

However, because of the complexity of the muscle structure and the difficulty in obtaining useful, reliable signals, preferably in a non-invasive mode, obtaining a useful definition of the muscle activity in a reasonable amount of time and in an economical manner is still subject to current development.

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